From Monterey to Victory: Laura Masana Takes Top Spot at MFLadies Event

The MFLadies Pinball Summer Season #4 was a hit! Held at Lynn’s Arcade: A Pinball Parlor and Can Slangery in Seaside, California, this thrilling tournament brought together 19 talented players for a night of pinball action. With a format of 5 rounds and 1 game per round, the competition was fierce, and the games were intense. The event, organized by Cary Carmichael, took place on a cool evening with scattered clouds and a comfortable temperature of 61°F. It lasted 2 hours and 30 minutes, with every second filled with excitement and skillful play.

A Night at Lynn’s Arcade: Where Nostalgia Meets Fun

Lynn’s Arcade, located at 1760 Fremont Boulevard, Suite D1, is a gem for pinball enthusiasts. This arcade offers a perfect blend of old-school charm and modern flair, featuring a range of machines from classics to the latest releases. Visitors rave about the welcoming atmosphere, friendly staff, and the great selection of can beers. With cup holders on every machine, players can stay hydrated while chasing high scores. The arcade’s well-maintained machines and budget-friendly prices make it a must-visit for both locals and tourists alike. Whether you’re a seasoned player or a newcomer, Lynn’s Arcade promises a memorable experience.

Rick and Morty (SE): A Dimension Hopping Battle

In Round 5, players faced off on the Rick and Morty (SE) machine by Spooky Pinball, released in December 2019. The game’s chaotic and hilarious theme perfectly set the stage for a thrilling match. Nikki Carmichael, pronoun they, showed their mastery by navigating the interdimensional portals and scoring big in the Multiverse mode. Their sharp reflexes and strategic play secured them first place in the round, leaving the competition in the dust. Ikela Lagapa, pronoun she, put up a valiant effort, landing in second, while Linda G took third, followed by Savannah Cabral, pronoun she, from Soledad, in fourth. The game’s unique blend of humor and challenge made it a standout moment of the tournament.

Pinball Machines Spotlight: A Journey Through Time and Space

The tournament featured 36 incredible pinball machines, each offering its unique challenges and thrills. Among the standout games were Creature from the Black Lagoon by Bally (1992), a nostalgic favorite with its classic drive-in movie theme, and Wheel of Fortune by Stern (2007), which brought the excitement of the iconic game show to life. The newly released JAWS (Pro) by Stern (2024) kept players on edge with its intense shark-hunting gameplay, while Jurassic Park (Premium) (2019) transported them to a thrilling dinosaur adventure. Other notable mentions include the space-themed Laser Cue by Williams (1984), the epic kaiju battles in Godzilla (Premium) by Stern (2021), and the rock-and-roll energy of AC/DC (Pro) by Stern (2012). The retro-inspired Pulp Fiction (SE) by Chicago Gaming (2023) and the unique Pabst Can Crusher by Stern (2016) added a touch of nostalgia and fun to the mix.

And the Winners Are…

The MFLadies Pinball Summer Season #4 brought together an impressive group of competitors, but only a few could claim the top spots. Laura Masana, hailing from Monterey, CA, clinched first place with a display of exceptional skill and focus. Despite facing fierce competition, Laura’s experience in over 55 IFPA events and her strong standing in the state rankings clearly paid off. Sneha Kolar took second place, showing remarkable consistency throughout the tournament. Known for her dedication and frequent participation in the pinball circuit, Sneha proved she’s a force to be reckoned with. In third place, Tammy Ballinger delivered a solid performance, showcasing her growing prowess in the game. Though she has participated in fewer events, Tammy’s strategic gameplay demonstrated her potential to rise in the rankings. Rounding out the top four was Gretchen Lou, an unranked player who made an impressive run. Despite being relatively new to the scene, Gretchen’s enthusiasm and skill left a mark, proving that with more experience, she could become a regular contender in future tournaments. The diverse skills and strategies on display made for an unforgettable competition.

California IFPA Pinball Top 10 Standings

A Night to Remember

As the tournament came to a close, it was clear that everyone had a fantastic time. The unranked players, Gretchen Lou and others, showed great potential and enthusiasm. A big thank you to Cary Carmichael for organizing such a wonderful event and to Lynn’s Arcade for providing the perfect backdrop. Keep an eye on the pinball scene, as we’ll bring you more updates and stories from the world of flippers and bumpers!